Window Air Conditioner - Installing Into a Window

Window air conditioners are designed for easy installation into standard double hung or single hung, wood or vinyl windows. View all current window air conditioners

 

If you have a different type of windowsill, please reference the installation instructions. Different models require different window dimensions, so be sure to check the minimum and maximum window dimensions in the model's installation information. Download a copy of the Installation Instructions

 

To install your air conditioner, you'll need the following tools:

  • Phillips head screwdriver

  • Drill with a 1/8 inch drill bit

  • Pencil

  • Tape measure

  • Level

  • Scissors or a knife

 

Step 1: Preparation:

  1. Make sure that the window is within reach of an electrical outlet that accepts a three pronged plug.

  2. Install the top mounting rail with the four Type-A screws or three Type-A screws (depending on your model) included with the unit.

  3. Apply weather strips (seals) to the top and bottom edge of the window. You may need to trim the weather strip to fit the size of your window.

  4. Apply weather strips to each side of the curtain frame that extend from the air conditioner to the sides of the window. This will help seal the area once it's installed.

  5. Slide the side curtain panel into the rails on each side of the air conditioner.

  6. Once the panels are in place, install the curtain frames (marked left and right).

  7. Slide the frame into the top slot in the bottom rail on both sides.

  8. Snap the side curtains into the frames.

 

Step 2: Install the Air Conditioner in the Window:

  1. Measure your window from side to side and mark the center point.

  2. You'll need another person to help you lift the air conditioner and set it into the window.

  3. Make sure the front edge of the bottom mounting rail is against the back edge of the windowsill and make sure that the air conditioner is centered on the center mark you made.

  4. Close the window so that the front edge of the top mounting is in front of the window. The air conditioner should be sitting level or slightly tilting to the outside.

  5. Extend the curtain panels to fill the window area on each side of the air-conditioner.

  6. Use your drill and a 1/8 inch drill bit to drill pilot holes to secure the side panels into place.

  7. Screw the four Type-B screws into the pilot holes.

 

Step 3: Secure the Air Conditioner in the Window:

  1. Locate and loosen the screw near the bottom on the right-hand side of the unit.

  2. Slide a side bracket over the screw so that it is resting on the windowsill.

  3. Tighten the screw.

  4. Use your drill and 1/8 inch drill bit to drill pilot holes through the holes in the side bracket.

  5. Screw two of the four Type-B screws into the holes and attach the bracket to the window sill.

  6. Repeat the side bracket installation to the left side of the air conditioner unit.

  7. If you want to cover and insulate the curtain panels, you'll need to measure the area for the adhesive-backed foam sheets. Cut these sheets to fit and then apply them to the side curtains and frames.

  8. Install the window lock bracket to the window and frame.

    • For wood windows, place the bracket above the lower window with the hole facing you.

    • For vinyl windows, like this example, place the bracket above the lower window with the hole to the side.

  9. Use your drill to make a pilot hole. Then, secure the bracket with one single type B screw.

  10. Cut the foam top window gasket to fit the width of your window.

  11. Insert the foam between the glass and the window to block outside air and insects from getting in through the crack.

 

For step-by-step video instructions: